Frederic Laurence facts for kids

Frederic Hope Laurence (born March 9, 1896, died October 22, 1982) was a brave British pilot. He became a 'flying ace' during the First World War. This means he shot down five enemy aircraft in air battles. He reached the rank of Group Captain in the Royal Air Force.

Early Life and Beginnings

Frederic Hope Laurence was born in Marylebone, London, England. He was the younger son of Mr. and Mrs. Gerard Laurence. His family later moved to Letchworth, in Hertfordshire.

Flying in the First World War

Laurence joined the army as a second lieutenant in the Worcestershire Regiment in 1915. Later, he joined the Royal Flying Corps, which was the air force at the time. He became a flying officer in May 1917.

He flew a Sopwith Camel, which was a single-seat fighter plane. He was part of No. 70 Squadron. On July 28, 1917, he helped his team get their first victory. They forced a German plane down over Ypres.

More Air Victories

Laurence continued to be successful in the air. On October 20, he forced down a German Albatros D.V plane. The very next day, he took down another one. A week later, on October 27, he had two more victories over Roulers. One was by himself, and the other was shared with other pilots. For his bravery, he received the Military Cross award on November 26.

Between the World Wars

After the First World War ended, Laurence stayed in the Royal Air Force (RAF). He was given a permanent position as a flight lieutenant in 1919.

He served at different RAF bases and schools. In 1923, he traveled to India to serve in No. 27 Squadron. While in India, he married Marjorie Vera Rawlinson in February 1924.

Laurence continued to move to different RAF units and headquarters. In 1928, he joined No. 480 Flight at RAF Calshot. Here, he flew large Supermarine Southampton flying boats. He was promoted to squadron leader in December 1928. He then took command of No. 204 (Flying Boat) Squadron in February 1929.

He also attended courses to improve his flying and leadership skills. In 1932, he worked with the Judge Advocate General. This role involved legal matters for the armed forces. He later served in Jerusalem, helping with staff duties for the RAF in Transjordan and Palestine.

In July 1935, Laurence was promoted to wing commander. He became the station commander of RAF Southampton in March 1937. On January 1, 1939, he reached the high rank of group captain.

Second World War and Retirement

Frederic Laurence served throughout the entire Second World War. He retired from the RAF on December 31, 1945, after many years of dedicated service. He passed away on October 22, 1982.

See also

• List of World War I aces credited with 5 victories
• List of World War I flying aces from the British Empire